AstronoMine

The AstronoMine project aimed to modernize astronomy education for primary schools by integrating game-based learning and enhancing STEAM instruction through the popular platform Minecraft. It addressed key challenges in traditional teaching by transforming abstract astronomical concepts into engaging, interactive, and practical learning experiences.

Key Objectives:

• Promote astronomy education using Minecraft as an innovative educational tool.
• Improve the quality of STEAM education through hands-on, immersive learning experiences.
• Enhance teachers’ digital competencies and equip them to use modern technologies effectively in the classroom.

Main Deliverables:

1. A Comprehensive Teacher's Guide providing structured lesson plans, pedagogical strategies, and guidance on integrating astronomy and game-based learning in STEAM curricula.
2. A Custom Minecraft Educational Environment featuring three interactive worlds that allow students to explore complex astronomical phenomena through engaging, hands-on scenarios.

Implementation & Results:

• Developed three tailored Minecraft worlds aligned with primary-level astronomy content.
• Created lesson plans and support materials in all partner languages.
• Delivered teacher training and resources to support digital integration in the classroom.
• Successfully completed all activities within the project budget of €54,000 and the planned timeline.

Impact:

• Increased student engagement and understanding of astronomy.
• Strengthened digital teaching practices in primary education.
• Provided sustainable, multilingual resources for ongoing classroom use.
• Enabled a modern, STEAM-based approach to traditional science education through a widely accessible digital platform.